A JPL report, Technology Highlights 2018 documents 31 contributions JPL has made to NASA’s space research and projects. Among these projects is the possibility of generating MOXIE (Mars OXygen), pure oxygen from the Martian atmosphere.

The fully-assembled concept lander was revealed at the Autodesk University, Las Vegas (November 13th). It is 1 meter tall with a 2.5 meters width and was made using 3D printing, CNC machining, and casting.

With generative design technology, the Autodesk team reduced the weight of the concept lander by 35% lighter compared to the initial design. However, weight reduction is not the only consideration for JPL and Autodesk.

The interplanetary lander must function in below zero temperatures and endure extraordinary amounts of radiation levels. To ensure that the lander will survive in such extreme conditions, exploration of various design possibilities is necessary. This requires time. Each design iteration takes usually between 2-4 months.

However, Autodesk’s generative design has reduced this time-frame to 2-4 weeks.